Parents of British lawyer killed by methanol poisoning in Laos pay tribute to 'loving daughter'

The parents of a British lawyer who died after being poisoned with methanol in Laos have described her as a "beautiful, kind and loving daughter".

Simone White, 28, was one of six people who are believed to have died as a result of drinking methanol-laced vodka from a bar in Vang Vieng, a resort popular with backpackers in the southeast Asian country.

In a statement issued by Ms White's employers, law firm Squire Patton Boggs, her parents said: "We are devastated by the loss of our beautiful, kind and loving daughter Simone.

"Simone was one of a kind and had the most wonderful energy and spark for life. She was a soul who gave so much to so many and was loved by her family, friends and colleagues.

"Simone has been taken from us too soon, she will be sorely missed by her brother, grandmother and entire family.

"Our hearts go out to all other families who have been affected by this terrible tragedy."

The London law firm called Ms White, who was from Orpington in Kent, a "talented colleague with a bright future ahead of her", adding she will be "sincerely missed".

It comes after two Australian teenagers have also died, as well as two Danish women in their 20s and a 56-year-old US citizen.

Best friends Holly Bowles and Bianca Jones, both 19, fell ill on 13 November following a night out drinking with a group, according to Australian authorities.

Thai authorities confirmed Ms Jones died because of a "brain swelling due to high levels of methanol found in her system".

Methanol is sometimes added to mixed drinks as a cheaper alternative to alcohol but can cause severe poisoning or death.

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Police in Laos have detained the manager and owner of the Nana Backpacker Hostel in connection with the death of Ms White and five others.

No charges have been filed but staff at the hostel, which is still operating but not accepting new guests, confirmed the manager and owner were among those taken in for questioning.

The UK Foreign Office said it was in contact with the local authorities regarding the British nationals affected.